Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued kidnapped victims, foiled planned terrorist attacks, and arrested suspected extremists in a series of intelligence-led operations across Kaduna and Zamfara states.
According to the military, troops of Sector 1 responded to a distress call on June 18 in Kerawa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where they rescued three kidnap victims abandoned by fleeing bandits. The victims were identified as Bilkisu Hayatu, 38; Habibah Sadisu, 30; and one-year-old Abdulmutallib Sadisu.
The rescued victims were evacuated to a primary healthcare facility in Kadage for medical treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that they had been abducted from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero on May 17 and were being moved to a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before troops intervened.
In Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2, working alongside other security agencies, foiled a planned terrorist attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area on June 20. Acting on intelligence reports, the troops laid an ambush and engaged the attackers, forcing them to flee.
Military authorities said weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles, and assorted food supplies were recovered during the operation, dealing a significant blow to the terrorists’ logistics.
In a separate operation, troops and personnel of the Defence Intelligence Agency arrested four suspected violent extremists and informants during a covert mission in Zamfara. Several incriminating items were recovered, while the suspects remain in custody pending further investigation and prosecution.
The troops also arrested a suspected terrorist, identified as Muhammad Mamman, whose conflicting statements reportedly raised suspicion. He is currently undergoing further interrogation.
Meanwhile, troops in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara successfully repelled a terrorist attack after receiving reinforcement from 1 Brigade. The military said the attackers suffered heavy casualties, as indicated by blood trails along their escape route.
However, the operation claimed the lives of three soldiers who were killed in action.
In another intelligence-driven operation, troops prevented an attack on Tudun Barade and Badamma villages in Bakura Local Government Area after intercepting terrorists moving on motorcycles. The suspects were forced to retreat before carrying out their mission, allowing security forces to secure the affected communities.
The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the courage and professionalism of the troops and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist and bandit groups across the North-West. He also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to enhance peace and security in the region.
